Shepherd’s House expands housing for women and children with $3 million award

KTVZ on March 28, 2026

Tyson Beauchemin

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Shepherd’s House Ministries has received a $3 million award to grow their “Abi’s House” program, which houses at-risk women and children in Central Oregon.

Currently, Abi’s House can only serve 10 people. But with this funding, the program will grow to 40 participants.

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, more than one-third of the homeless population in Oregon is women and the program currently has to turn away many applicants due to limited space.

The project involves purchasing multiple residences and units in the same area to create a network of safe housing.

Jerry Kaping, the director of development for Shepherd’s House Ministries, said the campus model is designed to provide 24-hour support.

“The reason why we’re building this campus is so that they will have community on an everyday basis, 24-7,” Kaping said. “They’ll have friends, they’ll have family, and they’ll have shepherd’s house right next to their side.”

The specific locations of the homes in the Abi’s House network are kept secret, to protect the privacy and safety of the women and children staying there.

Gina Stout serves as the CEO of Shepherd’s House Ministries. She said the additional space will provide trauma-informed care for women and children overcoming addiction, abuse and chronic instability.

“This project represents what’s possible when community partners come together to address homelessness and promote long-term stability for people with compassion and intention,” Stout said. “It will allow us to say ‘yes’ to women and children who too often hear ‘there’s no room.’ By expanding Abi’s House, we’re creating more than just shelter. We are creating safe, healing spaces where women can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”

The award comes from the Federal Home Loan Bank. Summit Bank facilitated the award through the loan bank. Gary O’Connell, the Central Oregon market president for Summit Bank, said the partnership is intended to strengthen local communities.

“Supporting efforts like this are one of the most meaningful parts of what we do at Summit Bank,” O’Connell said. “We are proud to partner in bringing Federal Home Loan Bank grant funding into our communities and to support organizations that are making a real difference in people’s lives every day. This kind of investment helps strengthen the places we call home and we are honored to be a part of it.”

Shepherd’s House Ministries expects the new expansion to be completed within six months to a year.

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Kehoe appoints Doug Miller to become next Moniteau County northern district commissioner

KMIZ on March 27, 2026

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Gov. Mike Kehoe has appointed Doug Miller to become Moniteau County’s next northern district commissioner, according to a Friday email from the governor’s office.

The position became open after Doug Naros stepped down following felony charges being filed in early February for forgery and two counts of stealing property. Naros’ case was moved Morgan County last month. A case review was scheduled for 9 a.m. April 7.

Miller, according to Kehoe’s release, is a lifelong Moniteau County residence and worked as a middle school physical education and health teacher for 27 years before retiring in 2021. He coached basketball and football at the middle school and high school levels, as well as high school golf.

He has a bachelor of science degree in education from Lincoln University in Jefferson City.

“He has remained active in the community by serving as an office manager for Rackers Manufacturing in California, as well as providing bus driving services for the school district as needed.

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Locals in Yuma react to gas prices continuing to rise

KYMA on March 27, 2026

Andrea Turisk

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – As gas prices continue to rise, more people in Yuma County are growing concerned.

Locals say they’re frustrated that the price of gas has gotten to where it is now, adding they’re losing faith that there could ever be a price drop in the future.

“It’s like there’s no running away from it. You’re gonna find expensive gas all throughout the country and it’s unfair,” said Patrick Rylee, a Yuma local.

According to AAA, the average price of gas in Yuma County is $4.20. They say just a month ago, the price for regular unleaded gas was $3, something some locals say feels unfair.

“Makes me feel bad…makes me feel like I’m getting ripped off. The obvious reason why gas prices are getting so high is because what our president and our government are doing,” said Rod Eck, another Yuma local.

Rylee says he moved to Yuma from Temecula, California six months ago, looking for a cheaper place for him and his family to live.

He says with prices like the ones at the gas pump, he feels like he never left.

When asked if he is worried gas prices could climb even higher, Rylee says, “Oh yeah. 100%. This is a never-ending battle…never-ending. You can run from it…I ran from this six months ago, and it’s back.”

Some locals, like Eck, say they’ve had to change their way of living just to be able to afford filling their tank.

“We don’t travel around as much…We’re cutting back on groceries, so we can afford gas. It’s hurting,” Eck shared.

“I stay at home a lot. I live in a fifth wheel, and I minimize everything, and I just simplify my life because, to me, prices are not gonna go down…They gonna keep going up,” said Deb Purdy, another Yuma local.

Residents say they’d like to see gas prices closer to $3, but don’t know how soon that’ll happen.

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Dead sea lion found positive for bird flu in SLO County

KEYT on March 27, 2026

Caleb Nguyen

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (KEYT) – Health officials in San Luis Obispo County found a dead sea lion that tested positive for bird flu at Morro Strand State Beach, according to the County Public Health Department.

This marks the first confirmed case in a marine mammal in SLO County.

The SLOCPHD, State Department of Fish and Wildlife, alongside the Central California Marine Animal Response Team, urged community members to avoid approaching marine mammals and seabirds, especially those sick, injured or dead.

Officials ask the public not to touch or help wildlife and instead call the NOAA West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding hotline or the CDFW for bird assistance.

Community members can reach the SLO County Public Health Department for related incidents and for more information on bird flu visit the State Department of Public Health webpage.

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Students trading beach time for build time in Ventura County

KEYT on March 27, 2026

Patricia Martellotti

VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) – Students are trading beach time for build time this spring break in Ventura County.

College engineering students are spending their spring break repairing homes for seniors in Ventura County.

Habitat for Humanity is teaming up with Theta Tau volunteers at a Newbury Park mobile home park.

Crews are completing critical repairs to improve safety and living conditions.

SOT: “It feels good to use our skills to help people who really need it.”

The effort helps seniors stay in their homes while giving students real-world experience.

FINAL: The work continues throughout the week as more student volunteers join the effort.

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“Tireless advocate” for Shoshone-Bannock Tribes identified as victim in fatal I-15 semi-truck crash

KIFI on March 27, 2026

Seth Ratliff

UPDATED: MARCH 30, 2026

FORT HALL, Idaho (KIFI) — The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are mourning the loss of William “Bill” F. Bacon, a longtime Tribal Judge and “tireless advocate” who passed away in a crash near Pocatello on Thursday, March 26. The Bannock County coroner’s office has confirmed Bacon was the victim in Thursday’s fatal passenger car vs. semi crash along I-15.

Tribal Leadership says Bacon will be deeply missed, and his legacy will continue to guide and benefit the Tribes for generations to come. Bacon is remembered for 37 years of transformative service to the Tribes.

Crash Details

According to ISP, the crash took place at 7:12 AM on Interstate 15 at mile marker 69. Police say Bacon was traveling north on I-15, driving a 2002 Nissan Altima. At the same time, a 2003 Freightliner semi-truck and trailer, driven by a 39-year-old male from Utah, was traveling southbound on I-15.

Police say Bacon’s Nissan Altima left the roadway, crossed through the median, and collided with the semi-truck head-on. Bacon was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene of the crash.

“My deepest condolences go out to Mr. Bacon’s family, friends, and the community whose lives he impacted in Southeast Idaho,” said Coroner Torey Danner.

The crash is under investigation by the Idaho State Police.

RELATED: Pocatello man killed in head-on collision with semi-truck on I-15

A “Steadfast Protector” of Tribal Rights

Bacon’s career was defined by his commitment to tribal sovereignty, serving 24 years as General Counsel and 12 years as Tribal Judge.

In a Facebook post, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal leadership shared several of Bacon’s notable achievements, characterizing him as a “steadfast protector” of Tribal rights. Alongside his legal team, he secured landmark victories that fundamentally reshaped the legal landscape for Indigenous people.

Restoring Treaty Rights: Bacon played a pivotal role in the U.S. Supreme Court effort that overturned the 1896 Ward v. Racehorse decision, restoring off-reservation hunting and fishing rights denied since Idaho’s statehood. Tribal leadership says he also successfully defended those rights in multiple Idaho Supreme Court challenges.

The FMC Landmark Case: He served as counsel in the historic FMC Corporation litigation regarding hazardous waste storage. To this day, Tribal leadership says it remains unique in U.S. legal history as the only one to satisfy both Montana exceptions for tribal jurisdiction over non-Indians.

Tribal Independence: Bacon also secured a multi-million-dollar fuel tax victory, further supporting the Tribes’ fiscal independence.

A graduate of Northwestern University and the University of Idaho, Bacon was a member of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar Association and, in 2023, received the Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished Attorney award.

Beyond the courtroom, Bacon deeply embraced Shoshone-Bannock culture, participating in traditional sweat lodge and sundance ceremonies. In a statement released Friday, Tribal leadership expressed deep gratitude for Bacon’s lifetime of dedication.

“Bill Bacon’s legacy is written in restored treaty rights, protected sovereignty, and resources secured for our people through his leadership and collaboration with his legal team,” said Chairwoman Donna Thompson. “He has been more than counsel—he has been a steadfast guardian of our future and a dear friend of the Tribes.”

Bill Bacon is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their three daughters.

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Idaho Senate passes bill criminalizing use of public bathrooms not matching biological sex

KIFI on March 27, 2026

Seth Ratliff

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — A controversial proposal that would criminalize those using public bathrooms that don’t match an individual’s biological sex is heading to Governor Brad Little’s desk. House Bill 752 passed the Idaho Senate on Friday morning. Should Governor Little sign it, it would mark a significant expansion of the state’s existing trans bathroom ban.

While the 2023 law already mandates that Idaho schools regulate bathrooms and locker rooms based on biological sex, HB 752 would extend these restrictions to all government and public buildings.

Under the proposed legislation, it would be illegal for any individual to “knowingly or willfully” enter a bathroom or locker room that does not correspond with their biological sex. The bill introduces strict criminal consequences. A first-time violation is classified as a misdemeanor, while a second offense would be a felony.

The bill has sparked a fierce divide within the Statehouse. Opponents have lambasted the legislation as an ‘unacceptable and discriminatory misuse of the criminal justice system.’

Supporters argue the bill is meant to keep women and girls safe and keep biological men out of areas designed for women. The bill’s sponsor, Senator Ben Toews, R-Pocatello, says he believes the legislation is a matter of protecting Idahoans.

“Actually, what we are trying to solve here is not targeting any group of people or one person. It’s dealing with sexual predators and very real issues,” Toews told lawmakers.

The bill faced unanimous opposition from the Senate’s six Democrats, joined by one Republican holdout, Senator Jim Guthrie (R-Pocatello). Guthrie questioned the practicality and humanity of the mandate, arguing that transgender people will get in trouble no matter what they do.

“We seem to be really focused on this space and ignoring the fact that there are people just like us,” Guthrie argued. “What are they supposed to do? I think stuff like this is harmful.”

ACLU Calls for Gubernatorial Veto

Immediately following the vote, the ACLU of Idaho issued a statement calling on Governor Brad Little to veto the bill, labeling it “dangerous and unprecedented.”

“This bill’s proposed punishments for using public facilities are extreme and unnecessary. A trans person who enters a restroom that aligns with their gender identity could receive the same punishment as someone convicted of a violent crime,” said ACLU of Idaho spokesperson Taylor Munson.

The ACLU further argued that the government’s responsibility is to protect the dignity and freedom of all Idahoans, regardless of gender identity. Governor Little now has 5 working days to sign or veto the bill. If the governor does not sign or veto the bill within five days, while the legislature is in session, the bill automatically becomes law without a signature.

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City of Yuma to host Yuma Salutes America’s 250: A Star-Spangled Celebration

KYMA on March 27, 2026

Dillon Fuhrman

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The City of Yuma is inviting the community to attend Yuma Salutes America’s 250: A Star-Spangled Celebration happening in April.

The event is taking place Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Desert Sun Stadium from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and it is to honor America’s 250th Birthday while taking advantage of the spring weather.

According to the City, there will be live music from Randy Houser, Parmalee and Bobby McClendon, as well as food and drink vendors, a kids zone and other activities during the event.

“Yuma Salutes America’s 250 is a great opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy live music, family activities, and a patriotic celebration,” said Special Events Assistant Kathy Urfer. “We’re excited to bring this event to Yuma as part of this historic national milestone.”

To purchase tickets for the upcoming event, click here. To learn more about the upcoming event, click here.

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Massive out-of-state contribution funds Idaho political action committee

KIFI on March 27, 2026

Sean Dolan

Originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org on March 26, 2026

By: Sean Dolan

BOISE, Idaho — Slapping an “of Idaho” onto the end of a political action committee’s name doesn’t necessarily mean the money it spends comes from within the Gem State. 

The Citizens Alliance of Idaho PAC on Wednesday reported a $400,000 contribution from Citizens Alliance Political Action Committee Inc., a super PAC based in Fairfax, Va., just outside of Washington, D.C.

That’s on top of a $50,000 donation the super PAC made last month to the Idaho PAC, for a total of $450,000 this year.

The only other itemized contributions the Citizens Alliance of Idaho PAC has reported this year are $100 donations from Jilene Burger of Idaho Falls — a Republican running against Rep. Marco Erickson, R-Idaho Falls, in May — and Robert Shillingstad of Hayden.

According to the Citizens Alliance of Idaho PAC’s website, the group wants to bring honesty and integrity to state politics by getting legislators to sign “The Citizens Alliance of Idaho Pledge.”

Forty-two have signed on, including Republican Reps. Cornel Rasor, Heather Scott, Dale Hawkins, Vito Barbieri, Jordan Redman, Joe Alfieri, Elaine Price and Republican Sens. Phil Hart, Doug Okuniewicz, Ben Toews and Carl Bjerke.

A screenshot from Idaho Sunshine shows that nearly all of the Citizens Alliance of Idaho PAC’s contributions this year come from out-of-state companies. (Photo courtesy of the Idaho secretary of state’s website)

According to the PAC’s website, legislators who sign the pledge agree to vote in support of:

The right to self defense

Individual medical freedom

Election integrity

Expanding education freedom

The right to due process

The pledge was inspired by the Idaho State Constitution and the U.S. Constitution, the website states. A video on the site provides more information.

“Talk is cheap and so are political promises, hidden agendas and special interests,” a narrator says over a video clip of a cowboy wrangling livestock. “That’s why we created the Citizens Alliance of Idaho pledge, affirming the values Idahoans have been livin’ by for over a hundred years.”

Who’s funding the super PAC?

As the Citizens Alliance super PAC is a national committee, the Federal Election Commission provides data on its funding and spending.

For the two-year period of 2025 and 2026, the super PAC reported $1.79 million in donations.

Of that, $1.29 million came from one business, POM of Pennsylvania LLC, which is associated with Pace-O-Matic, Inc., a business that describes itself as the “nation’s leading developer of skills games.”

There is a debate over whether the “skill games” that Pace-O-Matic produces are gambling devices, according to a November story from the Pennsylvania Capital-Star, part of the nonprofit States Newsroom, which also owns the Idaho Capital Sun.

In the 2025-26 filing period, two Idaho residents contributed to the Citizens Alliance super PAC.

Eagle resident Dan McKnight contributed $2,500 and Camp Hill resident Lynn Bradescu donated $1,000. Bradescu is a conservative realtor who ran for Boise City Council last year, as BoiseDev reported. That $3,500 from Idaho residents accounts for 0.2% of the super PAC’s funding in 2025.

During the 2024 election cycle, the super PAC donated $435,000 to the Citizens Alliance of Idaho PAC. The Idaho PAC spent $67,107 on independent expenditures to support or oppose legislative candidates in 2024 and reported $446,961 in expenditures that year to Mobilize the Message LLC, based in Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

“If anything, the only special interests represented by the Pledge are the citizens of Idaho,” the Citizens Alliance of Idaho’s website states.

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Boone Health files lawsuit against Missouri Heart Center, alleging contract breaches, data misuse

KMIZ on March 27, 2026

Mitchell Kaminski

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) 

Boone Health is suing a Columbia-based cardiology group, alleging breaches of contract, misuse of confidential information and plans to engage in unlawful competition.

The lawsuit, filed in Boone County Circuit Court, targets Missouri Cardiovascular Specialists LLP, also known as the Missouri Heart Center or MO Heart, which has provided cardiology services to Boone Health for more than a decade. According to court documents, a renewed agreement was signed in 2021 covering professional services and management of Boone Health’s cardiology operations.

Boone Health alleges it paid the cardiology group millions of dollars under those agreements for staffing, administrative oversight and revenue cycle management, which included access to sensitive financial and patient-related data. In return, MO Heart and its physicians agreed to noncompete and confidentiality provisions designed to protect Boone Health’s business interests.

The health system claims MO Heart violated those agreements by preparing to launch a competing cardiology practice in the Columbia area, potentially as soon as the contracts expire on May 6, 2026. The lawsuit alleges the new venture would fall within a restricted geographic area and time frame outlined in the noncompete clause, which Boone Health argues is enforceable under Missouri law.

Boone Health also accuses MO Heart of disclosing or misusing confidential information, including billing rates, reimbursement data and strategic business details during its transition to new partnerships with outside organizations. Boone Health alleges in the lawsuit those actions could cause “severe and irreparable injury.”

In addition, Boone Health claims MO Heart obstructed access to critical systems and data. The lawsuit alleges the cardiology group cut off Boone Health’s access to a key billing and patient information platform and stopped sharing necessary data, raising concerns about continuity of patient care.

Boone Health alleged that MO Heart indicated that it intends to operate independently and has taken the position that the noncompete provisions are unenforceable, according to the filing.

Boone Health is asking a judge to rule the noncompete agreements that MO Heart signed are valid, as well as having MO Heart return or destroy confidential information, and delay starting a competing practice until May 2027. 

A jury trial has been requested.

A spokesperson for Boone Health told ABC 17 News that it would provide additional details early next week. 

Dr. James T. Elliott of MO Heart disagreed with allegations in the lawsuit through a written statement.

“For months, we have tried to meet with leadership team at Boone Health to work constructively towards a new, collaborative arrangement that would preserve access to and expand high‑quality care for our patients and for the entire community. Unfortunately, Boone refused to engage with us in any meaningful way. Instead, we have been met with a series of escalating legal threats, culminating in today’s filing,” the statement reads.

“Earlier today Boone Health filed a lawsuit against Missouri Heart Center. We disagree with the lawsuit’s allegations and believe those claims are both legally and factually incorrect. This litigation does not change our commitment to caring for patients.”

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